Ofsted

We are delighted to share the outcome of our recent Ofsted inspection, which took place in March 2026 under Ofsted’s new inspection framework and report card system.

Instead of receiving a single, overall word judgement, schools are now evaluated across a range of key areas to provide parents with a clearer and more detailed picture of our strengths and next steps. Under this revised five-point grading scale (Exceptional, Strong standard, Expected standard, Needs attention, Urgent improvement), Pinewood achieved seven areas judged as “Expected Standard” and one area judged as “Strong Standard”.

An “Expected Standard” indicates that the school is securely delivering the high-quality education and care expected nationally, while a “Strong Standard” recognises areas where practice goes beyond these expectations.

Our Graded Areas

• Personal development and wellbeing – Strong Standard
• Safeguarding – Met
• Achievement – Expected Standard
• Curriculum and teaching – Expected Standard
• Attendance and behaviour – Expected Standard
• Inclusion – Expected Standard
• Early Years – Expected Standard
• Leadership and governance – Expected Standard

Key Highlights from the Report

The inspectors recognised many strengths across our school, capturing what it truly feels like to be part of Pinewood—a school where children flourish academically, socially and emotionally. The report highlights that:

• A Nurturing Environment: “Pupils benefit from a kind and nurturing atmosphere” and have “a deep sense of belonging”. Staff “respond sensitively to children’s individual needs” , and pupils show “kindness and compassion to each other”.
• Celebrating Diversity: Leaders “promote a culture where diversity is celebrated and every pupil is valued”. Inspectors recognised our pupils’ understanding of equity, equality and diversity, alongside their empathy, confidence and resilience.
• Exceptional Inclusion: The report celebrates the highly inclusive nature of our school and the exceptional care provided for pupils with additional needs, including those within our resource provisions. Decisions made by leaders are always rooted in pupils’ best interests.
• Strong Community & Opportunities: Inspectors noted the positive relationships that exist across the school, the high levels of attendance, the strong pastoral support for families and the broad range of opportunities available to children through clubs, visits and wider experiences.

Whilst we are incredibly proud of the report, we also fully embrace the identified next steps as part of our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement. At Pinewood, we never stand still. We remain ambitious for every child and determined to continue moving from strength to strength.